If you’re a teacher or homeschool parent looking for ideas for STEAM project-based learning, then this blog is a must-read for you! We’ve provided a list of best STEAM project-based learning activities that can be easily tailored to meet the needs of the students.
STEM, just like PBL and inquiry-based learning, improve critical thinking. Our list breaks down the learning activities by subject: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Most of the activities are customizable and are aimed at helping children aged 6 to 12 years.
1> Science Activities
Cloud in a Jar – Condensation, water cycles and states of matter are delightfully introduced to children through this experiment. A few simple household equipments (water and hairspray) are used to demonstrate the formation of the cloud along with how water cycles work in the environment.
Oil Spill – This is one of the best experiments to show how oil spills affect the environment. It simply involves mixing oil and water in a large container and then adding a few feathers to the mix. The next step involves passing out materials like sponges, paper towels or little spoons, and removing the oil without removing too much water. The simple goal of the experiment is to show how oil spills affect the environment.
Crystal Sun Catchers – Making crystals with salt is one of the most popular kid's science activities. The ingredients are cheap and easily available. You can get them at any grocery store. The activity primarily involves making crystals into a sun catcher and introducing the children with the basic concepts of geometry.
Building a Balance Scale – This activity involves making a hanging balance and introducing the concept of using weights. The best part about this experiment is that it doesn’t require too many equipment. It just requires a plastic hanger, some cups, and string.
Magnetic Slime – Homemade “slime” activities are staple for many parents and educators looking for a fun activity for their children. The most exciting part about this type of experiment is that it adds a splash of science by adding iron oxide powder and magnets into the mix. However, getting the slime consistency right is a little bit tricky. But the issues can be easily solved by adding glue or liquid starch.
2> Technology
Coding a Lego – In this activity, children are made to learn the basics of coding. It primarily focuses on developing the analytical ability in young children, along with improving their ability to deal with complex situations. With printable materials like mazes and instruction cards, your child puts themselves in the shoes of the user and writes different codes in order to guide their LEGO person through the maze.
3> Engineering
Building a Hand Crank Winch - This STEAM project is perfect for kids interested in crafts and willing to learn how things work. According to experts, the concept of winch is a perfect way to teach children how to build awesome things with simple machines like pulleys.
Jellybean Building – This is yet another simple experiment. All you need is a pile of jellybeans and toothpicks. By connecting the toothpicks with jellybeans, encourage your child to analyze the shapes that complement each other. The primary goal of the experiment is to inspire the child to understand the thought, design, and technology behind structural engineering.
4> Arts
Rhombicuboctahedron - Have fun making and decorating your own 3D Rhombicuboctahedron for a fun decoration. According to STEAM experts, this unique SLIME drawing activity inculcates creativity in the minds of young children.
5> Math Activities
Sticky Note Number Match – With a sheet of paper taped to the wall and some sticky notes and marker, you can easily set up this movement-oriented math activity to help kids understand the significance of numeric values. Instead of making the kids memorize the long list of numbers, this game lets them understand the same in a fun and exciting way.
So, here was a list of top 10 STEAM activities for children, updated for 2020. WizKids Club is one of the leading platforms that provide free access to engaging books and videos to parents for 7 days. The being run by NASA certified STEM leader -Sumita Mukherjee, regularly innovates and brings about new content to improve the sense of logical thinking on children aged 6 to 12 years.
